Chhath Puja, one of the most significant festivals celebrated in parts of North India, holds a special place in the hearts of people. It’s a festival that honors the Sun God and is known for its rituals of fasting, prayers, and offerings. However, for many actors working in the entertainment industry, being away from home during this time can be difficult. In 2024, several actors, including Pankaj Tripathi, Gurmeet Choudhary, and others, shared how they celebrate Chhath Puja while living far from their hometowns.
Pankaj Tripathi: Remembering the Roots
Famous actor Pankaj Tripathi, known for his roles in films like Gangs of Wasseypur and Mirzapur, grew up in a small village in Bihar, where Chhath Puja is celebrated with great devotion. Even though he’s now settled in Mumbai, Pankaj makes sure to keep the traditions alive. He recalls his childhood memories of the festival, where families would come together to perform the rituals at the riverbank.
Despite being away from home, Pankaj finds a way to connect with the spirit of the festival. He mentions that he tries to celebrate Chhath Puja by offering prayers at a nearby temple or performing the rituals in his own home, if possible. For him, the festival is about gratitude and respecting nature, particularly the Sun.
Gurmeet Choudhary: Celebrating with Family and Friends
Actor Gurmeet Choudhary, best known for his roles in TV shows like Geet – Hui Sabse Parayi and films like Khamoshiyan, also has fond memories of Chhath Puja celebrations in his hometown in Bihar. He explains how the festival was always a time for family bonding, where everyone would come together to observe the rituals with great devotion.
Though Gurmeet now lives in Mumbai, he tries to recreate the Chhath Puja atmosphere by gathering his close friends and family. He also mentions how he and his wife, Debina Bonnerjee, plan to keep the traditional spirit alive, even if they are away from their native place. For Gurmeet, the festival represents a connection to the Earth and a way to express gratitude for life’s blessings.
Chhath Puja: A Festival of Unity and Faith
Chhath Puja is not just about performing rituals but is also a time for people to come together, regardless of where they are. Many actors, though far from their homes, make sure they observe the festival in their own way. Whether it’s offering prayers in a temple, fasting, or simply reflecting on the significance of the occasion, the essence of the festival remains the same for all.
For these celebrities, Chhath Puja is a time to remember their roots, honor the Sun God, and express gratitude for the gifts of life. They may be away from their families, but the emotional connection to the festival keeps them grounded, no matter how far they are from home.
Keeping Traditions Alive
Even though many actors are away from their hometowns during Chhath Puja, the bond with their traditions and culture remains strong. Through prayers, rituals, and connecting with loved ones, they ensure that this important festival stays alive in their hearts. The way they celebrate Chhath Puja reflects how deeply rooted they are in their cultural values, no matter where their work takes them.
